Pittsburgh, Pa., February 21, 2005 - The Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF) has announced J. Thomas Ravn of Serigraph Inc, as the recipient of its 2004 William D. Schaeffer Environmental Award. The award, named for former GATF research director and pioneering environmental advocate William D. Schaeffer, recognizes individuals who have unselfishly made significant contributions toward environmental awareness, education, and best practices in the printing and graphic communications industry. Since 1987 Ravn has been moving Serigraph continually forwardas an environmental leader in the printing industry and in the community. He has participated extensively in the environmental committees for both Printing Industries of Wisconsin (PIW), an organization providing support for Wisconsin's graphic arts industry, and the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), a stateside association representing Wisconsin business. His knowledge of the environmental issues facing Serigraph and the printing industry, his ability to communicate concerns and problems to regulators, and his common-sense style in finding solutions and alternatives for dealing with these matters have been invaluable in developing and maintaining an outstanding relationship between the printing industry and environmental regulators. As nominator Cheryl Weslager said, "Tom epitomizes what a business environmental caretaker is all about. His focus is not only on the bottom line but also on how to protect the environment for us and every future generation. Tom is a leader in his field and deserves the recognition the Schaeffer award bestowes." While numerous activities attest to Ravn's dedication to creating and fostering an open working relationship and a model of cooperation between regulators and printers, the following accomplishments are especially notable: - Development of the Environmental, Health & Safety department at Serigraph from the ground floor to world-class status. Included with this has been the creation and implementation of a highly recognized Level B Hazardous Materials Response Team in which he takes great pride in leading. - Active participation in the Environmental Committee of the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) for several years. Through his involvement, he has provided guidelines on a variety of issues impacting the industry. - Pioneered and implemented a state-of-the-art biofiltration system that substantially reduces volatile organic compounds by 80%. Ravn will be honored at the 2005 National Environmental Health and Safety Conference, Monday, March 7, 2005, at the Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza, Tampa, Florida. The engraved Schaeffer Environmental Award plaque will be presented to him at this time.